Abstract Background: Cardiotoxicity is a serious adverse effect of chemotherapy, often identified only after irreversible myocardial damage has occurred. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) using fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) allows for the evaluation of myocardial glucose metabolism and may help detect early metabolic changes related to chemotherapy. Objective: To assess changes in 18F-FDG standardized uptake values (SUVs) across different cardiac regions before and after chemotherapy in patients with lymphoma, and to identify which region exhibits the greatest increase. Methods: This retrospective […]

Abstract Background: Non-invasive imaging for cardiovascular disease diagnosis has grown in volume and relevance in recent years, and it is important for early detection of cardiovascular diseases. There is a lack of data from Brazil on the availability of methods such as computed tomography (CT) and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR). Objective: This study assessed the regional distribution of professional practice and the exams performed, correlating these factors with population data and the number of active professionals. Methods: A nationwide […]

Abstract Background Dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) using the conventional protocol (CP-DSE) may lead to important adverse effects. Objective This study was aimed at assessing the safety of DSE using a modified protocol (MP-DSE). Methods Data were collected from our institutional database to compare MP-DSE with the CP-DSE. In the CP-DSE, atropine could be administered during the fourth stage or its extension. In the MP-DSE, atropine was initiated at the beginning of the third stage, and there was no stage extension. […]

Abstract Background: Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder. Invasive treatment for intraventricular gradient reduction is indicated in patients (p) who are refractory to clinical treatment with gradient ≥ 50 mmHg. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is one of the current options for invasive management. Objectives: To evaluate the correlation between interventricular septal diameter and procedural success, defined as immediate post-procedural gradient reduction, improvement in functional class (FC), and sustained gradient reduction at 6-month follow-up. Methods: Twenty-two patients with […]

Abstract Background: The assessment of congestion is critical for managing patients with cardiovascular conditions, including heart failure (HF). Traditional methods often lack sensitivity, whereas point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) provides an objective bedside alternative. Objective: To evaluate the interrater reliability (IRR) of key POCUS variables used to assess hemodynamic, pulmonary, and venous congestion. Methods: This single-center, prospective study was conducted from January to June 2023 in a cardiovascular intensive care unit (CICU) in Brazil. Adult patients underwent standardized POCUS examinations. Three trained […]

Abstract Background: Triple rule-out (TRO) computed tomography angiography (CTA) is an ECG-gated protocol that enables the simultaneous evaluation of the coronary arteries, thoracic aorta, and pulmonary arteries in a single scan. It is especially useful for patients in the emergency department with low to moderate risk of acute coronary syndrome, particularly when aortic dissection and pulmonary embolism are also considered in the differential diagnosis. Objective: This study aimed to compare two TRO protocols, fully electrocardiogram (ECG)-gated (protocol A) and partially […]

Abstract Background Few studies are using linear echocardiographic measurements for classifying the size of Atrial Septal Defect (ASD). Objectives Investigate the relationship between ASD hemodynamic repercussions and ASD diameter to the mitral annulus diameter (MI/ASD) ratio and ASD diameter to the interatrial septum diameter (ASD/septum) ratio, and describe cutoff points to classify the size of the defect. Methods An observational, prospective, cross-sectional study, including subjects aged 1 month and 18 years diagnosed with isolated ASD. Hemodynamic repercussion was quantified by […]

Abstract Background Anxiety is an important factor that influences patient experience during medical procedures. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is an exam that requires sedation, which can exacerbate anxiety and affect its practice. Objective To assess variables that influence the degree of anxiety experienced by patients undergoing TEE and its correlation with sedation. Methods We assessed patients of both sexes, age >18 years, referred for TEE. We applied an anxiety questionnaire (none, mild, moderate, and high) and collected demographic, clinical, and physiological […]

Abstract Background: Diastolic dysfunction (DD) is highly prevalent and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. More recent guidelines have introduced the classification of Indeterminate Diastolic Function or Indeterminate Diastolic Dysfunction (IDF or IDD). Nevertheless, both diagnoses are still poorly understood in clinical practice, with variable prevalence. Objectives: Assess the understanding of IDF and IDD among non-echocardiographer cardiologists in Brazil. Methods: A nationwide online survey was conducted among non-echocardiography readers cardiologists via mobile messaging platforms. A brief and anonymous questionnaire […]

Abstract Background: Severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is associated with high morbidity and mortality, especially in patients with contraindications for surgery. Transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement has emerged as a minimally invasive alternative for this population, with the LuX-Valve Plus device designed for orthotopic implantation via the transjugular route. Objective: To report the first 3 cases of transcatheter tricuspid valve replacement using the LuX-Valve Plus device in Latin America, assessing the feasibility, safety, and immediate clinical outcomes. Methods: The study included 3 […]